Dan Gilroy Criticizes Disney’s Handling of Jimmy Kimmel Suspension in Op-Ed
In a bold op-ed for Deadline, Dan Gilroy, the Emmy-winning writer behind Star Wars: Andor, critically challenges Disney’s suspension of Jimmy Kimmel following his controversial remarks about an assassination attempt on conservative pundit Charlie Kirk. Drawing stark parallels between Andor’s depiction of fascism and the modern-day threats to Hollywood’s free speech, Gilroy argues that coercion and intimidation—tools he attributes to Trump’s influence—are encroaching on the industry, turning Hollywood into a battleground for the First Amendment. With a profound warning of a looming ‘Trumpian world’ and a powerful call to resist censorship, Gilroy implores both the public and Hollywood to defend artistic voices against the creeping shadow of authoritarian control. As one of Disney’s own creatives takes a stand against the company’s controversial decision, the op-ed shines a harsh light on the urgent relevance of Andor’s themes in today’s sociopolitical climate. ‘This isn’t a skirmish,’ Gilroy warns, ‘It’s a siege,’ leaving readers questioning the future of freedom in the arts.
#FreeSpeech #Censorship #Hollywood #Andor #DisneyControversy #OpEd
Quick Takeaways:
- Dan Gilroy, a decorated writer behind Star Wars: Andor, slams Disney for suspending Jimmy Kimmel.
- He draws parallels between authoritarian themes in Andor and current threats to creative freedom in Hollywood.
- Gilroy argues the industry's silence under political pressure risks broader censorship and suppression.
- He calls on the entertainment community to defend free expression and resist intimidation.
Dan Gilroy Speaks Out Against Disney’s Response to Political Pressure
Emmy-winning writer Dan Gilroy, known for his work on Star Wars: Andor, publicly criticized Disney's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel in a recent op-ed published in Deadline. The studio’s decision to bench Kimmel followed blowback over comments he made about an attempted assassination targeting conservative media figure Charlie Kirk.
Gilroy, who worked on Andor for six years and received an Emmy for its second season’s penultimate episode, likened today’s political and corporate concessions to the authoritarian power grabs depicted in the series. He identified what he described as “Trump’s twin tools of governance”—coercion and intimidation—as creeping into the entertainment industry. In his view, these tactics now threaten the creative freedoms that have long fueled Hollywood.
Andor as a Mirror of Current Events
In his op-ed, Gilroy specifically tied the dystopian themes of Andor to growing concerns about censorship and political retaliation in the U.S. media and entertainment sectors. He suggested that the fictional empire’s oppressive methods mirror how political pressure is being used to silence dissenting voices.
The show, which has been praised for its focus on resisting authoritarianism, frames rebellion as a response to widespread surveillance, fear, and suppression. Gilroy highlighted how these narratives are becoming less fictional and more prescient with each headline involving suppression of speech or artists being punished for political views.
Warning Against Complacency
Gilroy didn’t limit his concern to Disney alone. He framed the situation as part of a broader trend in which powerful individuals and institutions apply pressure to curb speech under the guise of outrage or morality. He labeled the current dynamic a “siege” rather than a one-time incident—a claim that resonated deeply within creative circles already wary of growing constraints tied to corporate and political alliances.
He warned that Disney’s decision to discipline Kimmel could serve as a turning point, paving the way for what he called a "brave new Trumpian world" unless resisted by those with a platform inside and outside Hollywood.
Call to Protect Expression
The op-ed closes with Gilroy urging fellow creatives, executives, and the wider American public to actively push back against any force threatening the right to express ideas—even those that might be controversial. He stressed that silencing entertainers and writers for political reasons echoes tactics used by authoritarian regimes and erodes a foundation essential to democratic life.
Gilroy’s remarks have sparked widespread conversation, drawing attention due not only to his recent acclaim through Andor, but because he represents a growing number of artists calling on Hollywood to stand firm against intimidation and protect freedom of speech at all costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Dan Gilroy say about ‘Andor’ and the Jimmy Kimmel suspension?
Dan Gilroy expressed concern over perceived similarities between the political climate depicted in ‘Andor’ and the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel, calling it a “jack-booted attack” on freedom of expression. He suggested both reflect a troubling trend of suppressing dissent.
Who is Dan Gilroy and what is his role in ‘Andor’?
Dan Gilroy is a writer best known for his work on films like ‘Nightcrawler’ and also contributed as a writer to the ‘Andor’ series on Disney+. He helped shape the show’s tone and political themes.
Why is Dan Gilroy comparing ‘Andor’ to real-world events?
Dan Gilroy sees ‘Andor’ as reflecting real-world issues like the rise of authoritarianism and censorship. His comments suggest he believes recent political actions, like suspending Jimmy Kimmel, mirror the oppressive regimes portrayed in the show.
Was Jimmy Kimmel actually suspended by Disney?
There is no confirmed report that Jimmy Kimmel was officially suspended by Disney. Dan Gilroy’s statement may refer more to perceived political pressure rather than an actual corporate suspension.
What themes does ‘Andor’ explore according to its writers?
‘Andor’ explores themes like rebellion, authoritarianism, surveillance, and personal sacrifice for a greater cause. The show’s creators, including Dan Gilroy, intended it as a commentary on modern political climates.
Why is the ‘Andor’ series considered politically relevant?
‘Andor’ is seen as politically relevant because it delves into issues of resistance against oppressive regimes, which many viewers and commentators relate to current global and national events. Its grounded storytelling makes these themes resonate more deeply.
Has Disney responded to Dan Gilroy’s comments about ‘Andor’ and Kimmel?
As of now, Disney has not made a public statement responding to Dan Gilroy’s comments. The statements remain his personal opinion on the parallels he perceives.
Filipino Translation:
Sure! After thoroughly analyzing the original text and applying the provided guidelines for a Taglish translation, here is the translated version presented in a natural, conversational style:
Si Dan Gilroy, isang Emmy-winning writer ng Star Wars: Andor, naglabas ng matinding op-ed sa Deadline bilang reaction sa pagkaka-suspend ni Jimmy Kimmel ng Disney. Nangyari ’to matapos ang backlash dahil sa sinabi ni Kimmel about sa assassination attempt kay conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Ginamit ni Gilroy yung platform niya para i-connect yung threats sa free speech na nangyayari ngayon sa Hollywood sa mga themes ng fascism na ipinakita sa Andor. Sabi niya, "Trump's twin tools of governance, coercion, and intimidation, have found focus on Hollywood."
Warning pa niya na baka ang ginagawa ng Disney ay maging daan para mangyari yung tinatawag niyang “brave new Trumpian world” kung 'di nila ipagtatanggol ang First Amendment at kung palalampasin lang nila ang censorship.
Si Gilroy, na anim na taon nagtrabaho sa Andor at nanalo ng Emmy para sa penultimate episode ng season 2, sobrang concern dahil parang nagiging totoo na yung authoritarian takeover na pinakita sa show. In-emphasize niya na sobrang importante ng free speech sa Hollywood at dapat hindi tina-tahimik ang mga artists—isang technique na madalas gamitin ng mga authoritarian na gobyerno. Tinapos niya yung op-ed niya ng panawagan para lumaban ang Hollywood at ang public sa censorship at pananakot ng gobyerno: “This isn’t a skirmish. It’s a siege.”
Umabot sa maraming tao yung mga sinabi ni Gilroy kasi isa siya sa mga sikat na TV writers ng Disney na openly nag-call out sa company dahil sa ginawa nila kay Kimmel. Pinakita niya kung gaano ka-relevant ngayon sa totoong buhay yung mga themes ng Andor.
‘Andor’ Writer Dan Gilroy Decries Parallels Between Disney Star Wars Show and Kimmel Suspension: ‘Jack-Booted Attack’ was first published here.
